Opinion by IsabellaHayes

November has hardly begun. 

Colorful lights, garlands and wreaths adorn the insides and outsides of buildings. Decorated trees can be seen through windows of homes.

Starbucks has put out their holiday menu when I haven’t even had my fill of the pumpkin chai. 

Star 104.5 is already playing Christmas carols, totally replacing the pop classics I want to hear. 

Each of these things make me wonder: just how early is too early to start celebrating Christmas?

I’m not a hater of the holiday by any means. I adore the joy and warmth of the season, and I love making a wish list and eating sugar cookies as much as the next person. I just believe the full-fledged celebration should begin later on.

This eliminates the risk of becoming tired of Christmas activities and vibes before the holiday actually comes around. I find it much more rewarding to dedicate the majority of November to gratitude and savoring the last weeks of fall weather instead of anticipating Advent. 

In terms of shopping, the seasonal overconsumption is also out of hand. Christmas has been commercialized for ages, but it’s only become worse over time. 

Each year, big companies seem to put out their Christmas merchandise earlier and earlier, hoping to maximize sales and profit. It’s upsetting to see Halloween and autumn-themed decorations replaced with Santa and ornaments before October is even over. 

If stores were to start selling their Christmas products later, some of the focus would be shifted away from consumerism and onto the true meaning of the holiday: cherishing family and faith. 

Besides, if you’re still feeling jolly, the holiday celebration doesn’t have to end before New Years. Leaving up your decorations and listening to classics like “Winter Wonderland” well into the cold month of January can help maintain a sense of joyfulness.

Next holiday season, have patience, save your Christmas festivities for a little later on, and be sure to give Halloween and Thanksgiving the love and attention they deserve.